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ABOUT US
Many people in our area face barriers to mental health care. LightMHK is here to help. We offer local mental health professionals resource opportunities to cover care costs and strengthen programs. We also provide opportunities to community projects promoting mental health awareness.
We are funded through donations and led by a board of directors of local volunteers devoted to improving mental health care awareness and access.
Our name has a two-part meaning. “Light” reflects donors' actions supporting mental health in our community: Love. Invest. Give. Heal. Treat. “MHK” represents our region of service and is an acronym for Mental Health for Kansans.
Beth St. Amand
Chair
“Every person, family, and community benefits from mental health care. After losing a son to suicide, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve on LightMHK’s board of directors as we help support mental health care and education in our community.”
Dolly Gudder
Vice Chair
“It is my honor to serve on LightMHK's board of directors with others dedicated to providing financial access to mental health services for everyone in our community.”
Jayme Elliott
Secretary
Brenda Hoefler
Treasurer
Jason Hennigh
Cheryl Grice
“Mental health is a topic that touches the lives of countless individuals, directly or indirectly. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents open conversations and access to essential support. By being part of this nonprofit, I am committed to fostering a community that promotes understanding, compassion and resources for those in need.
I believe that through education, advocacy and community engagement, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health struggles. Together, we can promote awareness, eradicate stigma and empower individuals to seek help without fear or judgment.”
Bri Fowler
Ashley Stalnaker
Interim Treasurer
"I am proud of LightMHK's dedication to supporting vital mental health services locally. Our collective efforts are instrumental in ensuring accessible care and cultivating a healthier, more supportive environment for individuals in our community."
Kristin Fischer
Deanna Nitschke
Resource Development Coordinator
“My passion for mental health is driven by a belief that compassionate care should be accessible to everyone.”
Jill Jacoby
Program Director
"We all have been impacted by family, friends, or coworkers struggling with mental health challenges. I am committed to increasing community awareness about mental health, decreasing barriers to obtaining services, reducing stigma, and supporting our community members through LightMHK."
Partners
LightMHK is deeply grateful to the local mental health professionals who partner with us:
CORNERSTONE FAMILY COUNSELING
ETHOS THERAPY AND LIFE COACHING
FREEDOM BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SOLUTIONS
BE ABLE COMMUNITY
MHKMENTALHEALTH.ORG
PAWNEE MENTAL HEALTH
And to contributors who are integral to our success:
INDIVIDUAL DONORS
DEAN COUGHENOUR TRUST
BILL SNYDER HALF MARATHON AND 5K RUN
GREATER MANHATTAN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION'S GROW GREEN MATCH DAY
Board of Directors
Members of our Board of Directors are dedicated to supporting the lives of people affected by mental health challenges.